Need some advice

iVillage Member
Registered: 12-10-2004
Need some advice
3
Wed, 12-15-2004 - 12:33am
Hi everyone! I have a dilemma. My best friend recently attempted suicide, and has been hospitalized for about 2 weeks now. She is planning to come and stay with me for a while, and get her life back in order. My question is this...what should I do to help her? Since she attempted by overdose, should I lock up all medications in the house? Should I set down rules? s/a Should I tell her that her ex (who is part of the reason for her suicide attempt) is not welcome in my home? Should I avoid the topic of the attempt all together, or tell her how I feel about it, because it's not really about me it's about her right? And, should I talk with her doctor, and her together? Can I even do that? and if so, how do I bring that up to her, without seeming...rude..? Any advice any of you have would be very much appreciated. I will do as much as I can to help her through this, but I do not want to end up hurting her more than I'm helping her. Thanks is advance, Tina
iVillage Member
Registered: 07-01-2004
In reply to: tsitter
Wed, 12-15-2004 - 5:16pm

First of all, welcome to the board. Does your friend realize what a wonderful friend you are? You ask some great questions. You should find a way to communicate your concerns to her. Disclose things about your concerns, but make sure you tell her that you are not pressuring her. You just want her to get better. Keep telling her that, she needs to know that people want her on the planet.

I think some literature from her doc is reasonable. Ask her if she thinks that you should talk to her doc.

I think you are doing a wonderful thing to help your friend through this tough time.

Good luck and keep us posted.

Sending hugs and good thoughts your way.
Take care,
Lisa-)
Co-CL Depression Support

iVillage Member
Registered: 10-20-2004
In reply to: tsitter
Thu, 12-16-2004 - 2:39am

I dont hava any advice for you I just wanted to let you know that I wish my best friend had been this concerned over me when I came to live with her after my suicide attempt. I was mostly just glad to not be living alone and have someone to talk to. I do agree to tell her she is wanted her on earth and needed it helps allot.

Roxanne

iVillage Member
Registered: 12-10-2004
In reply to: tsitter
Fri, 12-17-2004 - 12:45am
Wow thanks guys...I really didn't think I was doing anything all that special...she needs me, and I'm going to help her *shrugs* it's just the way I am...Do any of you know any good websites that I could go to in order to find information for myself? I have found a lot of literature for those who ARE depressed, or suicidal, but I haven't really been able to find anything for someone such as myself. I have concerns about legal issues as well. Since she has told her doctor that she will be coming to live with me, will I be legally responsible for her well-being?